DESIGN TIPS THAT MAKE YOUR KITCHEN LOOK EXPENSIVE

My husband and I are known to have expensive taste on a shoe string budget. Don’t get me wrong there are definitely items that are worth the splurge; pieces that are integral to the design, making the space unique to you. However, while working on my latest kitchen project (which happens to have been our first house flip) I was reminded how possible it is to make a space feel expensive without the added dollar signs. Let me tell you how:

1. Select neutral, lighter. earthy colors for the walls and cabinets. Brighter, lighter colors help make the space feel fresh, seemingly larger . Whites, off-whites or natural colors will always be relevant and will help show off those unique elements that you will add later (see points below)

2. Source countertops, wall and floor surfaces that don’t feel too contrived. The glam look has never been part of my repertoire anyway, whether it be the way I dress or how I design a home. I prefer matte finishes, clean lines and artisanal qualities with the less is more approach. This style of design that more closely mimics nature which generally stays relevant longer. Ex. If you can’t afford marble counters, look for man-made surfaces that look as natural as possible. If the veining is bold and overwhelming, it will be noticeably unnatural.

3. Mix your metals: Whether its brass with oil rubbed bronze or polished nickel with brass, purposefully mixing the finishes throughout your space gives that room a well-thoughtout, unique (and therefore) expensive look. Think about the positioning of those metals in regards to other permanent elements in the room (cabinet hardware, lighting, faucets, countertops, shelf brackets, flooring, etc)

4. Source unique fixtures. Since this isn’t an article about my favorite (expensive) sources, I will address those dreaded big box stores. Don’t get me wrong, you can find some classic elements at Lowe’s that when mixed with other unique items disguises its origin. However, if you source everything from Lowe’s you will be hard pressed in making that space feel special, let alone unique or expensive. Instead. Look to Etsy, Ebay, your local antique stores or even to find one of a kind light fixtures, hardware, furniture, objects and art

5. Say YES to ART. Original art. Hands down my favorite way my favorite way to add color and interest to any space. Nothing else I need to say – just DO IT, you can thank me later ;)

6. Add texture and/or dimension where you can. Think…..Artisanal tiles (may be slightly wavy or vary in color), natural slate or stone floors, ship-lap (adds dimensions and depth), worn woods (provides warmth and interest), vintage rugs (rich color), baskets (texture), plants (a no brainer!)

7. Unclutter: If you have taken the above approach to design you have already knocked it out of the park. However, probably the easiest (but hardest, especially for a busy family) way to keep a kitchen feel fresh and elegant is to keep it uncluttered with every item on display having purpose and intent.

tags: design tips, kitchen design, kitchen design ideas, beautiful kitchens, expensive looking kitchen, art in the kitchen, kitchen art, kitchen gallery wall, expensive looking kitchens

DESIGN TIPS THAT MAKE YOUR KITCHEN LOOK EXPENSIVE

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